Brussels is reportedly seeking access to “backdoors” in messaging apps and online home assistants, potentially affecting all EU citizens. A confidential draft seen by German t-online news outlet suggests a significant expansion of surveillance measures within the EU.
The 28-page document, titled “Recommendations from the High-Level Group on Access to Data for Effective Law Enforcement,” contains 42 proposals for tighter surveillance, including creating “backdoors” in apps for law enforcement access. Failure to comply may result in penalties for companies.
The recommendations extend beyond messaging apps to the Internet of Things, requiring standardization of home devices like Google Home and Alexa. The proposal also includes data retention measures to store user traffic data and share it with law enforcement if necessary.
The document justifies mass surveillance as necessary for prosecuting organized crime and terrorism cases, but critics warn of a potential shift towards a fully monitored society. The EU Commission has not officially commented on the draft recommendations.
In the past, MEPs have raised concerns about EU nations using “totalitarian methods” to spy on journalists. The draft surveillance plans have sparked fears of increased surveillance within the EU.